Estranged

When love is absent, conditions can deteriorate. If this negative climate persists, relationships can be torn apart. By products of this atmosphere result in arguments, fights and misery. Without reconciliation, family, friends and relatives can become estranged. This tension creates a dysfunctional mood at an family gathering or reunion.

Remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world, Ephesians 2:12.

The Bible refers to estranged in context of a relationship with God. Any type of sin separates individuals from God. In the Old Testament, Israel was given the Torah as a set of standards for life. Breaking, cutting corners or slightly deviating from these laws is described as a willful act of disobedience. Deuteronomy 28 contains a list of blessings for those who obey God, ending with a much longer list of consequences called curses.

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near, Hebrews 10:24-25.

A first century Jewish convert to Christianity wrote the book of Hebrews. In the passage above, advice is provided to restore estranged relationships. Accountability serves as a tool to sharpen one another spiritually. While this takes place in the form as a Bible Study, prayer or sharing group, these fellowships promote healing and forgiveness. If you find yourself in a relationship drifting away or falling apart, take steps now so that these precious bonds are not severed permanently.